Representative Mike Bost, Republican from Illinois

Mike Bost

Representative Mike Bost

Mike Bost, a former firefighter and small business owner, represents Illinois’s 12th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, first elected in 2014. He focuses on veterans’ affairs, rural economic development, and protecting Second Amendment rights. As Chair of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Bost has led bipartisan efforts to expand healthcare and benefits for veterans, and has helped secure infrastructure funding for Southern Illinois. Known for his direct communication and practical problem-solving, Bost aims to ensure his district’s voices are heard in Washington.

Education

  • Certified Firefighter II, University of Illinois Fire Academy, Champaign, IL
    (1993)

Professional History

U.S. Representative

(2015-Present)

Representing Illinois's 12th district

Firefighter, Murphysboro Fire Department

(1993–2018)

Member, Illinois House of Representatives

(1995–2015)

Truck Manager/driver, Bost Trucking Service

(1982–92)

Small Business Owner

Policy Focus Areas

Armed Forces and National Security48%
Government Operations and Politics8%
Transportation and Public Works8%
Public Lands and Natural Resources6%

Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Mike Bost's record in Congress.

Veterans Affairs Reform

Co-sponsored and helped pass the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act to improve accountability at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Rural Broadband Expansion

Supported funding and legislation to expand high-speed internet access to underserved rural communities in Southern Illinois.

Agriculture Support

Advocated for Southern Illinois farmers in the 2018 Farm Bill, securing provisions for crop insurance and rural development.

First Responders Funding

Secured federal grants for local fire departments and emergency responders through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.

Committee Assignments

View details →
  • House Committee on Veterans' AffairsChair
  • House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
  • House Committee on Agriculture

Rep. Mike Bost FAQ

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Representative Bost focuses on Armed Forces and National Security, Government Operations and Politics and Transportation and Public Works. Deliver personalized constituent letters to Illinois's federal, state, and local officials — live in under five minutes.

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